Piper Aztec Prop strike

Piper Aztec Prop strike

Here is my dilemma today; I have a Piper Aztec in my shop that has
just had a prop strike on its left engine. We are already tearing it out,
overhauling the prop and governor, but we need some manufacturer's or type
user's group guidance on Piper's recommended airframe inspection
procedures post a prop strike. The insurance company wants us to point to
specific written guidance for how we handle the tubular steel engine mount
as well as the elastomeric motor mounts and the retaining bolts for the
engine and motor mount bushings. Our general "best practice" has always
been to remove the tubular steel engine mount - NDT test it, receive an
8130-3 and then re-install the engine mount with new bolts and new
elastomeric bushings.Â Â Do you have any specific guidance or a contact
for me that might be able to answer this basic question?Â Â Many thanks
in advance for your kind assistance.

Re: Piper Aztec Prop strike

Hi Dave,
Here is a response from our association A&P, Erich Rempert:

Hi Dave,

The crux here is the insurance company doesn't want to pay for the NDT,
new bushings, and bolts. So they are challenging you as to where is says
its required to do the NDT and replace the parts, my best guess is it
isn't.

If I were you, I'd see if the Aztec has a Structural Repair Manual that
calls out post prop strike inspection, or if there are Instructions for
Continued Airworthiness for the mounts that call out inspection procedures
following similar incidents, specifically an Airworthiness Limitations
section. Contact Lord and Piper to see if they can furnish you with the
relevant documents.

That all said, what you have done is "best practice", and should give the
owner piece of mind, and you a clear conciseness. However it may be an
investment the insurance company will not pay for.